Public Information and Communication

Gov Johanns Proclaims September as Library Card Sign-up Month

(Lincoln, Neb.) Gov. Mike Johanns today proclaimed
September as Library Card Sign-Up Month and encouraged Nebraskans to make use of
the smartest cards in their wallets.

"I believe literacy is key to the future success of your
children and grandchildren and that's why I encourage every caregiver not only
to introduce young people to the local library, but to make it a regular visit,"
Gov. Johanns said. "Amid all the discussion about enhancing education and
increasing achievement, there is no doubt that libraries provide an opportunity
for expanded learning - and the key that unlocks the door is a library card."

After signing the proclamation at Loren Corey Eiseley
Branch Library in Lincoln, the Governor was presented with a library card by a
group of young readers from area schools. The Governor used his new card to
check out a book and then he read it to the group.

Gov. Johanns added, "I am here today to remind Nebraskans
to take advantage of this tremendous resource available free of charge in
communities across the state. There are no hidden fees associated with this card
and it offers a very impressive rate of return in terms of increased literacy.
That's why it truly is the smartest card you can carry."

Rod Wagner, Nebraska Library Commission Director, said,
"Your library card is your ticket to opportunity. No other card in your wallet
gives you free access to books, CDs, magazines, movies, and all sorts of other
resources that can change your life - or just make it a little more fun."

To promote library Card Sign-up Month, Nebraska Libraries
are joining the Public Library Association (PLA), a division of the American
Library Association (ALA), and public libraries across the country to promote
"The Smartest Card @ your library™ campaign, The goal is to make the library
card the most valued and used card in every wallet, During Library Card Sign-up
Month, the ALA and libraries across the country remind parents that a library
card is an essential school supply.

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As the state library agency, the Nebraska Library
Commission is an advocate for the library and information needs of all
Nebraskans. The mission of the Library Commission is statewide promotion,
development, and coordination of library and information services, bringing
together people and information. The most up-to-date news releases from the
Nebraska Library Commission are always available on the Library Commission home
page,
nlc.nebraska.gov, search on Library Commission News Releases.